Michael Coughlan

What to include in a substitute teacher handover in an Irish primary school, plus a free printable daily plan.

A child might feel disappointed after losing a game, worried about making a mistake or upset following a disagreement with a friend. When we talk to children about these experiences, it can help to explore three different things: what they were thinking, how they were feeling and what they did next. These are connected, but

Moving to a new class can bring a mixture of excitement, curiosity and uncertainty for children. There might be a different classroom, new routines, a new teacher or changes to familiar friendship groups. Giving children opportunities to ask questions, share information and become familiar with what comes next can be a useful part of preparing

Friendship is something children practise in small moments throughout the school day. Inviting someone into a game, listening when a classmate is speaking and noticing when someone has been left out are all useful starting points for talking about what being a good friend means. Here are a few simple activities that can help children

Six free 2-player pencil and paper games with every rule written as Gaeilge. Print, pair up and play.